It was a full house at the Benalla Fire Station for the launch of a new book telling the brigades' history from 1940 to present day.

‘We’re on our way ... again: Benalla and district fire brigades group’ is a two-part history of the brigade.

It features an original history, from 1940-1990, penned by C H (Harold) Mundy, which was originally published in the early 90s.

And a new section featuring 1991-2025, penned by Barry O’Connor.

The idea for the book came from former group officer, Jim Renkin, who stepped into the deputy group officer role to give him time to run the committee charged with collating the brigades' history.

“It's 410 pages of 85 years of history,” he said.

“We had started on it before (long term CFA volunteer) Jack Harrison passed away.

“He had all the knowledge and all the history, and so it would have been very easy just to throw in the towel.

“But I took the view that we needed to do it now or never. So we got it all done.”

With 200 copies of the book printed on the first run, the launch saw more than 60 sold, and quite a few more since.

Mr Renkin said as, and when, more are needed a second print run would be ordered.

“The launch went extremely well. We had a packed house,” he said.

“It was perfect. We had the deputy chief officer there and some excellent speakers.

“We put on a wonderful meal for them, and everybody had a very good night.”

Mr Renkin said that as people get a chance to read through the book, there had been some fantastic feedback.

“Most people think it’s a marvellous publication,” he said.

“Some said it’s a little bit political, but that’s all right if it helps sell the book.”

If you would like to purchase a copy, you can call Mr Renkin on 0427 684 541 or email him via jim.renkin@gmail.com

A cash purchase is required, with no EFTPOS available.

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Tuesday, 8th April 2031

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